Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Practice Exam

Neglect is punishable under P.C. 22.04 because this statute specifically addresses situations where a child suffers injury due to a caregiver's failure to provide the necessary care, supervision, and protection that a child requires. Neglect can manifest in multiple ways, including physical neglect, which involves inadequate food, shelter, or medical care, all of which can lead to serious harm or injury to a child. The law recognizes the profound impact that neglect can have on a child’s physical and emotional well-being, thus categorizing it as a criminal offense when the caregiver's inaction leads to harm.

While physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and financial instability can also adversely affect a child's well-being, P.C. 22.04 focuses specifically on neglect as an actionable offense that directly results in injuries or a risk of injury to the child.